German Rivas, a 21-year-old senior at Norwich University, is a shining example of determination and passion. Hailing from Attleboro, MA, Rivas embraces the Corps of Cadets lifestyle while pursuing a degree in Construction Management.

One of Rivas’s greatest passions lies in maintaining physical fitness. He dedicates countless hours at Plumley Armory, continuously pushing himself to improve his readiness. His involvement with the Norwich Artillery Battery has not only provided him with a solid foundation in leadership, planning, and knowledge but has also demanded unwavering commitment and time investment.

Rivas’s decision to attend Norwich University stemmed from his aspiration to pursue a military career. Initially, he had planned to enlist straight out of high school, but the advice of his peers encouraged him first to pursue a college education. Norwich has been instrumental in helping Rivas identify his true goals within the military and equipping him with the tools to achieve them.

Rivas’s life is guided by a profound statement his grandfather often shared while working on the family farm in El Salvador: “The days don’t get longer, and the work doesn’t get harder; it’s the desire to finish that goes away.” This wisdom has instilled in Rivas the importance of maintaining personal motivation in all aspects of life, enabling him to overcome challenges and achieve his wants and needs.

Post-graduation, Rivas aims to join the Defense Security Service (DSS) and continue advancing his career in the Army National Guard.

Rivas’s dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment to personal growth make him an inspiring figure on campus, embodying the values of Norwich University. His life motto, “The Desire to Finish,” serves as a testament to his relentless pursuit of success.